The Marquis smiled.
“There is a lady present whom I have promised to present to His Highness——”
“One of your countrywomen, Monsieur?” asked the Princess.
“Yes, Madame.”
“I shall be honoured, Monsieur.” The Prince’s tone was quiet.
“I refer to the Duchesse de Lavalette—will Your Highness accompany me?”
Something to his grandmother’s surprise William went instantly. The Princess watched the two figures turn out of the ballroom with some satisfaction. She had always considered the French alliance her grandson’s best hope.
The antechamber was full of the music of the sarabande that came through the open doors, the music and the sound of the ladies’ dresses as they swept the polished floor.
M. de Pomponne stepped quickly up to one of them who sat alone on a carved settee.